The high-octane T20 series between India and New Zealand is reaching its grand conclusion. The Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram is all set to host the fifth and final match of the series, while this encounter is of immense significance as it marks the final international outing for the Men in Blue before they head into the T20 World Cup campaign.
The Grand Finale in Thiruvananthapuram
India has already secured the series with a dominant 3-1 lead. Under the leadership of Suryakumar Yadav, the team displayed exceptional cricketing skills in the first three matches. Although New Zealand managed to pull one back in the fourth game, the momentum remains with the hosts. The final match offers India a chance to test their combinations one last time on the international stage before the big tournament begins.
Match Timing and Toss Schedule
Fans planning to catch the action live should take note of the timings. The 5th T20I is scheduled for January 31st. The match will commence at 7:00 PM IST. The crucial toss will take place at 6:30 PM IST, which will determine the playing conditions and the final XI for both sides, while given the coastal weather of Thiruvananthapuram, the toss might play a vital role in the outcome of the game.
Sanju Samson's Homecoming
All eyes will be on local hero Sanju Samson. The wicketkeeper-batsman has had a quiet series so far and is eager to find his rhythm. Playing at his home ground, Samson will have the backing of a packed stadium, while a big knock here wouldn't only boost his confidence but also silence critics ahead of the World Cup selection finalizations. The team management is expected to give him full freedom to express himself at the top of the order.
Road to the T20 World Cup
The T20 World Cup is set to kick off on February 7th, with India facing the USA in their opening fixture at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. This final T20I against the Blackcaps serves as the perfect dress rehearsal. Following the match, the Indian squad will fly to Mumbai for a specialized preparatory camp. Captain Suryakumar Yadav has hinted at potential experiments in the bowling department to ensure all players are match-ready.
Squad Analysis
India's squad features a mix of youth and experience, with the likes of Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah leading the charge, while on the other hand, New Zealand, led by Mitchell Santner, will rely on the explosive batting of Devon Conway and Glenn Phillips. The spin battle between Kuldeep Yadav and Ish Sodhi will be a key highlight of the match. The pitch in Thiruvananthapuram is known to offer some assistance to the slower bowlers as the game progresses.
India Squad
Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav (C), Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh,. Harshit Rana, Ravi Bishnoi, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Axar Patel, Shreyas Iyer, Varun Chakaravarthy, Arshdeep Singh.
New Zealand Squad
Devon Conway, Tim Seifert (wk), Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Mitchell Santner (C), Kyle Jamieson, Matt Henry, Ish Sodhi, Jacob Duffy, James Neesham, Michael Bracewell, Lockie Ferguson, Zakary Foulkes, Bevan Jacobs.